JUC Crier 1 26 15 by Jefferson Unitarian Church

The JUC Crier The Newsletter of the Jefferson Unitarian Church 14350 W. 32nd Avenue • Golden, Colorado 80401 • 303-279-5282

January 26, 2015 • office@jeffersonunitarian.org • www.jeffersonunitarian.org • Volume 2015, Issue 2

Sunday, February 1 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.

No Other Shore presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister

Faith has often been thought to have been addressing some other place and time. Could it be that faith actually has more to do with the here and now? Music: Worship Band; Adam Revell, piano. Sunday, February 8 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.

It Isn’t What You Have; It’s What You Do presented by Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister

One of my favorite opening readings in our hymnals says, Three unseen guests attend: Faith, Hope and Love. In this free faith of ours, what matters most isn’t what you have, it’s what you do with the unseen guests who live through you. Music: Rev. Keith Arnold, piano. ☛ Looking ahead to… Sunday, Feb. 15: A Legacy of Faith presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister. February is African American History Month. Through music and spoken word, we will explore the lament and hope embedded in sorrow songs (spirituals). Music: JUC Choir; Adam Revell, piano.

Evergreen Campus Sunday, Feb. 1 • 4 p.m.

2981 Bergen Peak Dr.

1 Visitors' Circle • 2nd & 4th Sundays

(at Congregation Beth Evergreen)

5 minutes after each service (Meet @ the Welcome Table)

It Isn’t What You Have; It’s What You Do

For newcomers: an informal discussion to answer your questions about Unitarian Universalism and JUC. Next session: February 8.

presented by Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister

1 Path to Membership

Saturday, February 21 • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (chapel) Designed to familiarize those considering joining JUC with some of our staff, our diverse programs and activities, UU history and the responsibilities and benefits of membership. Sessions include child care and a light lunch. You may RSVP at the Sign Up Site or call the JUC office (303-279-5282). Please call Annie Hedberg, Membership Coordinator (303279-7451), for more information on the joining process.

Worship services held on first and third Sundays at 4 p.m. 2981 Bergen Peak Dr. (at Congregation Beth Evergreen) If you wish to be informed about news regarding our Evergreen campus, please contact Sue Parilla, Director of Congregational Engagement (sueparilla@jeffersonunitarian.org).

But more than just being an issue of demographic survival in a changing world, if we are to live out the heritage of our free faith, we must also be prepared to share our good news with the world, including people of all colors. And we must be prepared to be changed in the process. Rev. Wendy shared a powerful message about this very issue a few days ago. And many of you have been asking, How can I be involved? So let me offer you an important first step. Begin the work of becoming culturally competent. What is that? It’s four important things: First, become aware of your own cultural worldview. We all have one, often hidden away in assumptions about values, ideas, and “the way things are done.” Until you can identify your own culture, you’ll have significant challenges engaging across cultures. Second, investigate how you view cultural differences. For example, when you see a family being loud together, do you assume something is wrong, or that they’re gregarious? Third, actively seek to learn about cultures other than your own. Attend events where you aren’t the dominant demographic present. Read works by authors who live and work outside your cultural context. Finally, develop cross-cultural skills. These skills allow you to navigate into a world that is richer and deeper than what is available when we mostly spend time with people who are already like us. Our whole team will be working in the months and years ahead to help offer opportunities for all of us to grow in cultural competence. And I hope you’ll join us on the journey.

Just a few days ago, I joined with tens of thousands of other people in Denver’s annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marade. And in the mix of it all, I know I didn’t get to see all of you who joined in. I’m so glad so many people from Jefferson Unitarian Church, and many other Unitarian Universalist congregations, participated, and I hope that next year we have even more. One of the great things about a church as big as ours is that we have members and friends who live in many different places, and work and volunteer in many parts of our community. Some of you live in places where you regularly see and hear people of a variety of backgrounds, like going to the bank and hearing Spanish spoken by tellers and customers alike. Others of you live in neighborhoods where people of color are your next door neighbors. And others of you live and work and volunteer in places where you might go the whole day without encountering a person of color. And each of those experiences impacts how you engage with the larger community. What we know for sure is that with more than half the American population under age 5 identifying as something other than non-Hispanic white, our predominantly white congregations face significant challenges in the years ahead.

In Faith,

Eric

Tuesday, Jan. 27 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. • chapel

A Party Not to be Missed!

Need a chance to unwind, settle down, go deeper? Evensong services at JUC are opportunities to employ singing and silence as a Unitarian Universalist spiritual practice. We reconnect with our breath, listen to ourselves and one another with compassion, and become more aware of our connectedness with all things. If you’re having a tough week or are in difficult circumstances, Evensong is a super way to let go. If you are feeling in good harmony, this hour of intention will magnify your well-being. Gather with other spiritual seekers and be prepared to exhale and energize. Evensong services are held monthly on selected Tuesdays. January’s Evensong service will be led by Gail Abbott.

Bowling Together: Saturday, Feb. 7 • 7:30 p.m. Auction item: last call! We’re taking over the whole bowling alley! The JUC Staff – Wendy, Eric B., Keith, Beckett, Carol, Sue, Ashley, Annie, Sarah, and Kristin will be your hosts at Paramount Lanes (2625 Kipling St.). Fun for all ages! Bowling, shoes and yummy snacks are all included – but no stress, bowling is not required – it’s a party for everyone. Expect some surprises from your hardworking, talented and creative staff. Don’t go bowling alone... go bowling with us! Stop by or call the JUC office to reserve your spot for just $15.

LIVING OUR VALUES (LOV!)

2nd Tuesdays

Family Activity Sunday, Feb. 1 • 12:30 to 2 p.m. (The Super Bowl starts later in the afternoon!) Join the Green Task Force to create seed balls and bird seed ornaments to feed our bees and birds. Seed will be placed in clay balls. Rain will dissolve the clay and the seeds will plant themselves. Even the youngest child can help. Soup, sandwiches, and supplies will be provided for a free will donation. Each family will be able to take home some bird and bee food containers to feed creatures in their own back yards. Please call or email Peggy Gates (303-668-3761; peggygates@ live.com) to RSVP and have questions answered.

Light Dinner • 6 p.m. (commons) Worship • 6:30 p.m. (chapel)

If your small group meets on Tuesday night, you’ll be able to attend dinner, the worship service and your group meeting. Worship will be led by one of our ministers; soup and bread will be available for a modest donation. Sign up at the Sign Up Site or online (tinyurl.com/ ToGatherTuesday) to donate a crock pot of soup/stew or bread. Cooks can be reimbursed up to $25 for ingredients if requested. Next ToGather Tuesday: Feb. 10.

Religious Education Ministry Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education (ashleyjohnson@jeffersonunitarian.org; 303-279-5282, x18)

Children’s Worship: First Sundays in the Chapel Sunday, February 1: Faith

Incorporating Integrity in JUC Families

service in May so that all gathered can welcome them into the larger community as a youth, no longer a child. Participants in each class develop deep ties which can continue in the high school youth group among the youth, as well as the adults. We are a faith that challenges us to discern what is important to us, what we believe and what positive change we intend to work for in the world. The Coming of Age program provides the tools to do this. COA empowers our young people to live as Unitarian Universalists and to have the strength to be their authentic selves.

by Kate Dixon, Parent and Volunteer Writer

C.S. Lewis once said, Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Coming from the Latin word integer, meaning whole or complete, integrity is an inner sense of wholeness coming from honesty and what you believe about right and wrong. Acting with integrity is how closely you live your life according to the principles, values, and beliefs you claim to hold. Like many virtues, it can be taught to our children by words and actions- by what we say and how we say it, and by what we do and how we do it. To create a base of integrity, make sure to be true to your words, ensuring that yes means yes and no means no. How we say things is also very important, replacing sarcasm and condescending tones with patient and honest ones, and talking to your family on a daily basis the way you would like them to talk to you. As far as teaching integrity through actions, like many principles it may be best for children to learn by example. If you don’t allow texting at the dinner table for your children, wait to respond to your own emails or messages. Follow through with outlined consequences for both positive and negative behavior. How we take action also shows our integrity. Doing the job right the first time, even if no one is watching or checking, and expecting the same of all the family will help them strive for excellence and display integrity, simply because it is the right thing to do.

Don’t forget that our middle school RE team isn’t complete. Let us know if you’d like to help!

Beloved Community: Religious Education Ministry at JUC

Tuesday, Feb. 17 • 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. • chapel Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education, will share JUC’s philosophy of religious education and lift up how our beloved community can provide a foundation for a lifetime. This is not just for parents of school aged children, but for all members and visitors who are interested in the development of UU youth. Child care will be provided. RSVP today (tinyurl. com/mckgwjd). Contact: Ashley Johnson (303-279-5282; ashleyjohnson@jeffersonunitarian.org).

Parent Helpers Early Childhood and Elementary classrooms are in need of parent (grandparent/guardian) helpers. Find out what your kids are experiencing and learn more about being a UU. Contact Sara Covington (thenannysara@gmail.com) or Leah Reed (pictwii95@gmail.com) for more information. Do you have graphic design skills? Do you have a few hours to support RE programming at JUC? Please contact Ayrolyn Keady for more information on how you can help with upcoming projects (ayrolynkeady@gmail.com).

Neighboring Faiths Programming

Neighboring Faiths finished our study of Eastern religions with a visit to Kadampa Meditation Center, where we meditated, chanted, and learned about being happy no matter what life throws our way. In December, we kicked off our exploration of Abrahamic religions with Judaism and a visit to Temple Emanuel for their Shabbat service. Then onward to Christianity in January! By examining other faith traditions, Neighboring Faiths participants develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the UU faith, and are able to discover other spiritual practices to incorporate into their own. It touches on many of the principles on which our own religious tradition was founded, including understanding the inherent worth and dignity of every person, having compassion in human relations, accepting one another, and striving towards the goal of creating a world community with peace, liberty and justice for all.

From the Classrooms

Jill Pond, Our Whole Lives (OWL, 4th-5th Grades) Our first OWL class was a great success; the kids were very involved with our discussions and had a great amount of respect for each other as we took turns sharing. I’m super excited to be teaching them in this most important journey and can’t wait to see how it unfolds.

✪ SOUPS ✪

The Importance of Coming of Age (COA)

Coming of Age helps 8th graders to delve into the JUC community with adults, meet with an adult mentor once a month and find the words to articulate their personal theology. So why is COA important to JUC and being UU? As a faith community we dedicate ourselves to raising our children formally at a child dedication ceremony. As our children grow older, they need their community to walk with them. At JUC, we mark the time when our 8th graders have grown from being a child to becoming a youth at the end of their COA year. We celebrate their journey and who they have become. COA youth are presented to the congregation in a special worship

(Support of UU Parents) 2nd & 4th Mondays • 9 to 11:30 a.m. (chapel)

Feb. 9: It’s the heart of the flu and cold season and SOUPS has you covered! Experts in natural health will offer remedies to common ailments like headaches, sore throat, cough, nausea and insomnia. Get prepared to handle the germs in your household in a supportive and nurturing environment. Child care begins at 8:45 a.m. for babies to kindergartners, or older kids willing to be mentors. Contact: Lori Gray (jucsoups@gmail.com; 303-945-5873).

Endowment and Memorial Gift Trust (EMGT) Call for Grant Proposals for 2015-2016

New LEAP Class

JUC’s EMGT directors are pleased to announce that $25,000 will be available for special projects in 2015-2016. Since its inception in 1996, the EMGT has distributed more than $450,000 to fund capital improvements, scholarships, internships, conferences, and community outreach. We encourage you to submit your ideas to advance the strategic objectives of JUC. Please remember that all grant proposals must originate from a standing committee or recognized JUC group. The guidelines and application form may be found on the JUC website (jeffersonunitarian.org/Endowment-Memorial-Gift-Trust). Proposals are to be submitted in electronic format on the application form, emailed to the EMGT directors (EMGT@ jeffersonunitarian.org).

What Moves Us

A UUA Tapestry of Faith curriculum by Rev. Dr. Thandeka 2nd & 4th Sundays • 9:15 a.m.• M3/4 Facilitated by Pam Bond, Barb Scherer What Moves Us continues Sunday, Feb. 8, when we will focus on the historical progenitor of American Unitarianism, Charles Chauncy (1705-1787), who argued, during the Great Awakening, for the need to include intellectual reasoning in understanding spiritual experiences. You might prepare by thinking of a personal spiritual experience you’ve had. You can reflect on this while we explore Chauncy’s ideas about the need for both reason and emotion to live spiritually transformed, moral lives. While the ten workshops in this class are sequential, you are welcome to attend individual workshops even if you can’t attend all of them. Information for each upcoming workshop will be posted online (jeffersonunitarian.org/LEAP-Classes), and more information about the class can be found on the Unitarian Universalist Association website (uua.org/re/tapestry/adults/ movesus/index.shtml).

The submission deadline for grant proposals is Friday, April 3, at 5 p.m. Projects approved for funding will be announced in The JUC Crier in late April. For more information, feel free to contact any EMGT director: Cheryl Ames, Chair (cheryl_e_ames@msn.com); John Bunting (buntingco@msn.com), Laura Hollingsworth (lauraohollingsworth@hotmail.com), Charlie Gangloff (ganginco@comcast.net), Stephanie Briggs (briggsedit@gmail. com), Chris Thiry (CJJT98@yahoo.com).

Find out more about JUC’s Lifespan Education and Adult Programs at http://jeffersonunitarian.org/Adult-Education Sign up for classes oniline (jeffersonunitarian.org/LEAPRegistration), at the Sign Up Site or by calling the church office (303-279-5282). Contact: Patti Coe-Withington (303-596-1130), LEAP facilitator.

Year Round Pledge Campaign: What’s Your Thing? We all have at least one thing that brings us to JUC. Many of us are attracted by several things, but we must all have at least one, or we wouldn’t be here. What’s your thing? One of mine is the music. A fabulous example is the recent holiday music worship service, Calling All Dawns, led by our Minister of Music, Rev. Keith Arnold, with the JUC Choir, a selected choral ensemble and wonderful soloists, as well as an orchestra that included JUC members as well as guest musicians. The packed sanctuary was filled three times over with glorious music that brought joy and inspiration to everyone. The remarkable thing about that event was not only the performances and the magic the music brought to the attendees. It was also in the ministry to the many people who participated in creating the event. I, for one, am deeply grateful for the chance to sing in the JUC Choir. We are a community within the JUC community that works and plays together, and we get the chance to participate in creating extraordinary musical events, as well as contributing to many regular Sunday worship services. You may have noticed that JUC did not charge an admission to that “performance”. Of course not, as it was a worship service, not a ticketed performance at some concert hall. But it took pretty much the same resources to make it happen as it would if it were such a performance. So where did those resources come

from? Who’s paying for the mortgage (rent) on the sanctuary (a.k.a. concert hall), with the lights and heat and clean up costs, so that we have a comfortable place to gather for such a special event? Who pays for the salaries of the staff to create the order of service or line up the ushers and other volunteers, and for the fabulous Minister of Music who worked for months to put the whole thing together with such skill? Why, we did, of course. The members and friends of JUC. There is no one else. When you talk about rent and lights and salaries, it’s no surprise that people’s eyes glaze over. But when you understand that those are the very things that make the beauty of music happen, they take on more significance. If your “thing” here at JUC is not the music program, but something else, the same is true for it as well, I’ll guarantee it. So, when your time comes around this year to re-up your pledge to JUC, understand that it will really make a difference for you to increase your pledge by 10%, so that we can improve and expand on our ministry. If that is beyond your means, then give JUC a $5 per month cost of living raise, so we can at least keep up the ministry we have. We have over 750 adult members and 250 kids here, so our ministry creates over 1000 people’s favorite things about JUC! We can be both proud of and grateful for the chance to make this community what it is. Pat Emery, Co-chair, Year Round Pledge Campaign

Did You Know... ...We have a new Small Group Ministry program helping develop personal connections among JUC members. Groups meet at JUC and as far away as Littleton and Pine. Hand in hand... Stone by stone. 4

Board Blog Elaine Zerger, Trustee 303-279-7459; elainezerger17@gmail.com

Visit jeffersonunitarian.org/src for general information on SRC Task Forces and their goals.

I had a milestone birthday last May. You can guess which milestone, but you’d be wise to just leave it alone. Jack Killough, my life partner, had the same milestone birthday. We decided to celebrate in Ireland where we both have family roots. We loved Ireland! On Sunday morning of our first week there, Jack and I attended the Dublin Unitarian Church located on St. Stephen’s Green. Its doors were opened in 1863. We were taken by the beauty and simple elegance of the interior, particularly the stained glass windows, with one featuring the themes of Discovery, Truth, Inspiration, Love and Work. As Jack scurried about taking photos, I seated myself and was immediately greeted by Effie, a spirited congregant who shared a bit of church history. She invited me to stay for refreshments served in the basement of the church following the service. We heard a thought provoking sermon presented by a lay member, enjoyed the music of the solo saxophonist, sang a familiar UU hymn, and then afterwards made our way down the stairs to the community room, stopping often to take in a style that was literally from the era of Dickens. We found to our delight that the greeting from the congregants was as warm and rich as the church itself. Once downstairs, we were approached by a number of people, young and old. At the refreshment table, we were asked to wait for the second pot of coffee which was being brewed just for us. As we visited with Michael, Harley and Elaine (yes another Elaine), with our warm mugs of coffee in hand, we were not only greeted with welcomes and smiles, but offered travel tips melded with connections to family genealogy, including names and addresses of the best pubs in Dublin. We contributed to the pipe organ restoration fundraiser and purchased their Dublin Unitarian greeting cards. We felt very much a part of this Irish UU service. When I was the welcoming Board member a few weeks ago, I was amazed by the number of visitors who had ventured out in the cold to attend the 9:15 a.m. service. I looked for them during coffee hour, as you may have if you were at church that morning. It takes a village to make our visitors and guests feel welcome each Sunday. I love catching up with friends during coffee hour. That is part of the reason that I attend church. I know, however, that I need to balance that special visiting time with the offer of a smile, a cup of coffee (no need to brew a special pot) and a welcoming word to those who have introduced themselves during the service. The Irish are known for being a friendly people, but then, so are Coloradoans, and more specifically I want to believe, JUCers. Hopefully some of our visitors will return. Even if we never see them again, our reputation as a welcoming congregation is carried beyond our front doors. Although Eric told us that New Year’s resolutions are infrequently fulfilled, I resolve to meet and greet more of our visitors and guests in 2015. I would love to help provide the same at home feeling that Jack and I experienced in Dublin.

Want to Learn More about Social Action Activities and Ways to Get Involved? Are you longing to put your UU principles into practice, but still looking for the right fit? Check out the redesigned Social Responsibility bulletin board on the north wall of the south commons. You’ll find upcoming activities for several months and information from the All-Church Project (Just Neighboring), Food & Nourishment, Housing & Poverty, UU Service Committee and Green task forces, as well as the Guatemala Scholarship program. A great way to plan ahead. . . . Food & Nourishment Task Force . . .

Eating Ethically Is Now Food & Nourishment! One of our UU values is ethics and we UUs all endeavor to be ethical in all that we do, and that includes fellowship with food. Our group does that and much more. On Monday, January 19, Lisa Bickford facilitated the renaming of Eating Ethically. We brainstormed to find a name that would encompass our many activities, goals and values. We looked at our history and how we got the name Eating Ethically in the first place: The task force was named after an article in UU World magazine in 2007. You can read that article, Eating Ethically, online (uuworld.org/ideas/articles/11130. shtml). From 2008 to 2011, we worked on the four-year project of establishing a Statement of Conscience (SOC), submitting our ideas to the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). Then at General Assembly (GA), Carol Kolesnikoff participated in the mini-assemblies in Salt Lake City and finally addressed the plenary session in Jacksonville to promote adoption of the Ethical Eating SOC, which was adopted by the UUA in 2011. We are not forgetting our roots, but when we looked at all we do, and plan to do in the future, we unanimously decided that our identity is more accurately represented with our new name: Food & Nourishment. In the next few issues of the Crier, we will explore this change more fully, and what we have to share with you, our church family, in the way of Food & Nourishment. Food & Nourishment meets on third Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Mills building. (Next meeting Feb. 16) Contacts: Gilla Lachnitt (303-321-6974; lachnittg@gmail.com), Carol Kolesnikoff (720-440-1853; eatingethically@gmail.com). . . . Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) Task Force . . .

Social Justice Travel Opportunities Have you ever thought of taking a trip based on UU principles? Check out the new SRC bulletin board in the commons to learn about trips to Cuba, Haiti, New Orleans, Chicago, the southwest border of the U.S. and more. Some of these trips are with the UU College of Social Justice, which is a collaboration of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC). The mission of the UU College of Social Justice is to help UUs deepen and sustain the work of justice in their congregations and communities. These trips fill up fast - don’t wait!

JUC Board of Trustees Next meeting: Thursday, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. jeffersonunitarian.org/Board-of-Trustees 5

Pastoral Care

Save the Date!

How JUCers Care for Each Other

October 9-11, 2015 Join your JUC family and friends for the 2015 Gather the Spirit retreat at Snow Mountain Ranch. Nurture your mind, body and spirit at this beautiful Rocky Mountain retreat. More information and registration details will be available in April, but for now—mark your calendars!

We Share in the Joys of… ❦ Nancy & Dave Petiya

We Hold in Our Hearts…

The Little Mermaid Sing-Along Saturday, Feb. 28 • 6 to 8:30 p.m.

❦ Paul Belanger

Disney lovers of all ages are welcome to come enjoy an alltime favorite, The Little Mermaid, and sing along with all the fabulous classic songs from the movie. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. - Fun props make watching the movie interactive and silly - Sing along to great classics like Under the Sea, Kiss the Girl, and Part of Your World - Costume contest with prizes - Trivia fun throughout the evening - Concessions during intermission, including beer and wine for the grown-ups Want to volunteer? Research some trivia? Purchase and sell concessions? Clean up? Contact Melissa Monforti (melissa@ fortemusiceducation.com; 303-455-4896).

Compost, Recycling and Trash at JUC Help Us Be Green!

Community Events

❦ Brad & Mary Carson ❦ Ayrolyn & Kevin Keady ❦ Linda Grantham ❦ Patti Stone ❦ Mary Richards ❦ Sue Gunn

Please take note of the appropriate receptacle in which to toss your waste. Here is a handy list:

Public Banking in Colorado: Prosperity for All Saturday, Jan. 31 • 1 to 8:30 p.m. First Universalist (4101 E. Hampden Ave., Denver)

Compost – bins that have a green bag in them: food coffee cups paper plates napkins compostable cutlery (what we have/allow here at JUC) compostable “plastic” cups (what we have/allow here at JUC

Public Banks grow business, create jobs, lower debt. Several national and local speakers. $25 Includes all afternoon and evening sessions; $40 Includes dinner. Students: 10/$25. Visit www.bankingoncolorado.org to register or for more information. Sponsors: Be the Change (www.btc-usa.net); The Denver Foundation (www.denverfoundation.org); The Public Banking Institute; Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center.

Recycling – blue bins paper (including mail, catalogs, office paper) cans and bottles cardboard (please break down boxes) recyclable plastic cups (we prefer these not be purchased for events here, but if they are here they go in recycling – not in the trash or compost!)

Interfaith Alliance Day at the Legislature

Monday, Feb. 9 • 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. • Colorado State Capitol Meet in House Committee Room 112 Learn about the legislative process, tour the capitol, meet your state senator and representative, and learn how to become an effective advocate on the issues you care about most passionately. $25 fee includes snacks, lunch, materials. Register by Feb. 2 (www.interfaithallianceco.org/events).

Trash – bins with white bags Check to see if it belongs in the compost or recycling first. If not, then it goes in the trash. If you help by taking waste out (thank you!), please choose the right bins in the dumpster area. Color-coded signs mark each area: left (green sign) is compost; right (blue sign) is recycling; center dumpster is trash. Please make sure to close the compost bin lids! The raccoons love to make a mess when those get left open. Thank you so much for your help to make us greener!

Front Range UU Leadership & Technology Conference Sat., Feb. 21 • 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Universalist (4101 E. Hampden Ave., Denver)

This second annual event is specifically tailored to current and future leaders in the Cluster’s 7 UU congregations, and you are encouraged to attend. Join with other Front Range UUs to share, learn and deepen our knowledge about leadership and technology and the ways that we can share our gifts with our congregations. The theme for the day is Collaboration and Communication, with some terrific key note and multiple tracts and workshops. Cost: $16 early bird (by Jan. 31), $21 after Feb. 1. Continental breakfast and catered lunch included. Register and pay online (tinyurl.com/nv643pa). 6

Ongoing Affinity Groups Groups on this page meet on a regular basis and welcome new members. Meeting locations are posted in the common areas of both church buildings. Blue Mountain Meditation Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. • Annie & John Hedberg (303-279-7451) For those practicing Eknath Easwaran’s Eight-Point Program for living a spiritual life in the everyday world. If you wish to join without the introductory course, read Passage Meditation by Easwaran and meditate 30 minutes daily for a month.

Roving Readers: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Mike Foster (303456-2647) Open to anyone who reads the monthly selection. Books selected by group participants.

Buddhist Sangha: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-474-6723) The Buddha was a highly unorthodox person. His teachings are not sets of dogma but rather propositions for people to investigate and validate for themselves. No experience necessary. Child care upon request.

Slow Soup Group: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Gilla Lachnitt (303-216-9674; lachnittg@gmail.com), Carol Kolesnikoff (303588-9198; eatingethically@gmail.com) We’ll prepare soups together to take home and to donate. Ingredients provided; cost is $10/person.

Science and Spirit: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Joe Kraus (swish@nuthingbut.net) Discuss recent discoveries and wonder together. More info at http://jucscienceandspirit.wordpress.com

Charla! 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Carol Drew (303-422-5977) Discuss important topics in Spanish. Intermediate level recommended.

Spiritual Healing Circle: 2nd Saturdays, 10 a.m. (6620 Quitman Ct., Arvada) Joyce Thiessen-Barrett (joycebarrett@comcast. net), Emily Townsend (emily.townsend@gmail.com) Weaving together practices from shamanism, energy healing, and music healing to create sacred space, offer prayers, and send/receive healing energy. RSVP requested.

Covenant of UU Pagans (CUUPS) • Angela Priest (angelapriest30@gmail.com; 303-877-6055) Dream Study: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 9:15 a.m. • Marie Schottler (303-278-8035; mschottler@comcast.net) Based on the writings of Jeremy Taylor, in this gentle group process questions are asked of the dreamer leading to an aha! about his or her own dream. Please call before attending.

Story Circle: 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. • Lev Ropes (303-2780177; levropes@comcast.net) A gathering to foster the traditional art of storytelling for adults. Tell a polished story for fun, or a story that you’d like to polish up in front of a forgiving and friendly audience. Receive help from other tellers, or come to listen. All are welcome.

Great Books Discussion Group: 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dona Chilcoat (303-989-6945) Based on the idea that by reading from the great books of our civilization and discussing them with others, sharing insights and questions, you can reach a fuller understanding of these works than you could on your own. Note: Dec. 8 mtg. will be held at Dona Chilcoat’s home. Feb. 9: Troilus and Cressida (Shakespeare)

Thin Air: Tuesdays, 1 p.m. • Margaret Bakker (303-986-0769) An informal group of folks who wish to keep up their musical skills as well as have fun. Repertoire consists of traditional, folk, instrumental and vocal music. Please call for more details. Understanding the Heart of Buddhism: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-4746723) Meditation and discussion presented online by Rodney Smith, author of Lessons from the Dying, Stepping Out of Self-Deception and Awakening; founder of the Seattle Insight Meditation Society.

Issues in Aging: 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. • Jim Mayer (303-4311740; jimmayer.colo@gmail.com) Information and education on issues related to healthy aging and dementia, to include lectures, panels, and discussion. JUC Knitters: 3rd Fridays, 7 p.m. in members' homes • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) All knitters and crocheters are invited to join in making hats and blankets for Denver Health.

UU Liberal Christians: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. • Sara Lohaus (pslohaus@comcast.net; 303-432-3149) Connect with Christianity from a fresh, open-minded perspective.

Non-Violent Communication: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dindy Fuller (720-402-4099) Anyone who has previously taken NVC training is eligible to participate. A great way to practice and improve your skills.

UU Piecemakers: 3rd Fridays, 9:30 a.m. in members' homes Edna Mae Miller (303-989-4793) Work on personal projects as well as quilts donated to charities selected by the group. WomenSpirit: 2nd Fridays, 7 p.m. • Kalin Baker (Kalin@ KalinArtAndSpirit.com; 720-253-6561) A lively community of women 18+ who playfully reflect and share interactive programs based on participants’ interests. Feb. 13: Shamanistic Lucid Dreaming. Meet in the commons to carpool to an off-site location for a class with Emily Townsend. Bring a pillow and blanket.

Origins: 1 Wednesdays, 1 p.m. • Lisa Rountree (lisa.rtree@ gmail.com; 720-273-7511) Discuss literature exploring the origins of our religious traditions. st

Poetry Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Julie Excell (julieexcell@gmail.com; 541-778-4724) Explore poetry as an art form and a spiritual practice through appreciation of the work of master poets, and through writing and sharing your own poetry. Quuilters' Group: 1st Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) Call for meeting details. Retirees' Brown Bag Lunch: 1st Fridays, 11:30 a.m. • Betty Halladay (303-274-9144) Next meeting: Feb. 6.

Office Hours

Monday – Friday • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday • 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sunday • 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of Music Tuesday–Friday • 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister Tuesday–Friday • 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Staff will generally be available according to the schedule above, but it is always wise to call ahead!

Sunday Morning Announcements

If you would like your JUC event to be announced via our order of service and/ or weekly email notice, please submit 75 words or less to Rona Bradley (ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org) by Wednesday at 9 a.m. on the week you’d like your announcement to appear.

Weekly Attendance Jan. 11 9:15 208 RE: 57 (10 adults) 11 182 RE: 70 (14 adults) Jan. 18 9:15 178 11 193 Evergreen 4p 31 RE: 4 (4 adults)

The JUC Crier This newsletter of the Jefferson Unitarian Church is delivered electronically to all members and pledging friends. First class mail delivery is available upon request to the church office (303-279-5282; office@ jeffersonunitarian.org). Upon request, visitors may be added to the email list or receive four (4) complimentary issues, after which they may continue receiving the newsletter by notifying the church office. E-mail ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org to submit an article. Editor: Rona Bradley Next deadline: 3 p.m., Mon., Feb. 2 Next publication date: Mon., Feb. 9

Calendar Highlights

(full calendar available online at jeffersonunitarian.org/calendar) Tuesday, Jan. 27 Wed., Jan. 28 Thurs., Jan. 29 Sat., Jan. 31

1:00pm 2:00pm 6:30pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 7:00pm 9:00am

MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) Small Group - Rountree (M1/2) Evensong (chapel) MMG: Musical Rehearsal (sanc., Priestley rm.) Small Groups (R6/7, R3/4, M5, Mitchell rm.) JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) Small Group - Swahnberg (Mitchell rm.) JUC Choir (sanc.) Pastoral Care Associates mtg. (M1/2) Quuilters show hanging (chapel, sanc.)

Sunday, Feb. 1 Monday, Feb. 2 Tuesday, Feb. 3 Wed., Feb. 4 Thursday, Feb. 5 Friday, Feb. 6 Sat., Feb. 7

9:15/11am No Other Shore w/Wendy Williams 10:20am MMG: Musical Rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 12:15pm Young Adult Ministry mtg. (R6/7) 12:30pm LOV! w/ Green TF (comm., kit.) 12:30pm PCG: Connectors’ Circle (M3/4) 1:00pm CUUPS: Children’s Circle - Imbolc (chapel) 4:00pm Evergreen Campus Service w/Eric Banner 5:00pm B&C: ¡Charla! (M3/4) 5:00pm WT: Buddhist Sangha Service (chapel) 3:00pm Newsletter Deadline 6:00pm Pledge Campaign mtg. (M3/4) 6:00pm MMG: Golden Bells rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm B&C: CUUPS mtg (chapel) 7:00pm MMG: Bell Ensemble rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 1:00pm Green TF: CCL conference planning mtg. (M1/2) 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 6:30pm MMG: Musical Rehearsal (sanc., Priestley rm.) 7:00pm B&C: Non-Violent Communication (R6/7) 7:00pm SRC Meeting (M1/2) 7:00pm UU Liberal Christians (R3/4) 7:00pm SRC: Housing & Poverty TF mtg. (M3/4) 1:00pm LEAP: Origins Book Group (M3/4) 6:15pm JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm JUC Choir (sanc.) 7:00pm B&C: JUC Poetry Group (M3/4) 7:30pm B&C: Blue Mountain Meditation Group (chapel) 11:30am B&C: Retirees’ Brown Bag Lunch (M3/4) 7:00pm MMG: First Friday Open Mic (sanc., comm.) 9:00am Green TF: Climate Change (sanc., chapel, comm., R3/4,6/7)

Sunday, Feb. 8 Monday, Feb. 9 Tuesday, Feb. 10 Wed., Feb. 11

9:15/11am Sunday Service w/Eric Banner 9:00am LOV!: Valentines to politicians (chapel) 9:15am LEAP: What Moves Us (M3/4) 10:20am MMG: Musical Rehearsals (Priestley rm.) 12:30pm Small Groups (R6/7, Priestley rm.) 5:00pm Family Promise families arrive (entire Mills bldg.) 9:00am CURK: SOUPS (chapel, R1/2, R8) 9:15am B&C: Dream Study (R3/4) 6:00pm MMG: Golden Bells rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 6:30pm Small Group - Beal (Mitchell rm.) 7:00pm Worship Ministry Team (R6/7) 7:00pm MMG: Bell Ensemble rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm B&C: Great Books Discussion Grp. (chapel) 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 2:00pm Small Group - Rountree (Mitchell rm.) 6:00pm B&C: ToGather Meal (comm., kit.) 6:30pm MMG: Musical Rehearsal (sanc., Priestley rm.) 6:30pm WG: ToGather Worship (chapel) 7:00pm SRC: UUSC TF mtg. (R5) 7:00pm Small Groups (R6/7, R3/4, chapel, Mitchell rm.) 6:15pm JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) 8